Easing administrative burden in the public safety net: insights from a trauma-informed housing programme

Abstract For survivors of domestic violence, public safety net benefits, including housing, food, and cash assistance, are often critical resources in establishing independent, safe lives. Using a reflexive thematic analysis of qualitative data from a local housing programme collected from August 2023 to January 2024, this study explores the intersection of trauma-informed care (TIC) and administrative burden within public safety net programmes for survivors of domestic violence. Findings demonstrate that barriers to accessing and participating in the public safety net, including learning, compliance, and psychological costs, hinder survivors’ recovery and stability, and clash with TIC principles. Conversely, TIC-aligned practices at the local housing programme, including strong case management, peer support, and flexible programming, mitigate these challenges. Research and policy implications related to how the integration of TIC principles can ease administrative burden in the public safety net are discussed.